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Duvidha (PG*)

Rewriting the Rules

,Cinema 3
A woman in traditional Indian dress stands by a window.

A ghost falls in love with a new bride in this virtuoso blend of folklore and avant-garde cinema, anchored in an evocative feminist perspective. 

Director Mani Kaul was a key architect of the avant-garde experimental strand of Parallel Cinema. Many of his films have a distinctive austere visual sensibility that drew on the indigenous influences of Indian art, expressly painting and music.  

Adapted from Vijaydan Detha's Rajasthani folk tale, Duvidha explores the haunting and surreal world of a newlywed bride left alone in her in-laws' house when her husband departs on business. Her life takes an unexpected turn when a ghost falls in love with her and assumes her husband's identity.  

Memorable lead performances are intensified by Kaul's distinctive use of long takes and static frames; the minimalist visual style resembles an extended painting. The film is deeply rooted in Rajasthani culture, bringing to life the region's landscapes, architecture, and customs. 

Tagged with: Cinema Rewriting the Rules: Pioneering Indian Cinema after 1970 Art & design

India 1973 Dir Mani Kaul 82 min Hindi with English subtitles Digital presentation 

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Cinema 3

Location
Barbican Cinema 2 & 3 are located on Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican’s Silk Street entrance. From Silk Street, you’ll see a zebra crossing that will take you across the road to the venue. 

Address
Beech Street
London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.